Rhiannon’s Reviews: The Band

Showing at Manchester’s Opera House until Saturday, ‘The Band’ is a musical featuring the music of Take That. Casting Booker Rhiannon saw the show this week. Here’s what she had to say about the production:

“The Band is an absolute must-see! Not just Take That fans, but everyone that grew up idolising a pop band will leave feeling nostalgic and reaching for their old CDs.

Interestingly the story is not about a boy band singing Take That hits, as may be perceived from the title. Instead, it follows a group of girlfriends from school age in to their 40s, with their love for the band remaining constant. The key moments in their lives are accompanied by a fitting Take That song, which takes on a whole new meaning.

In one of my favourite scenes, the song ‘Back For Good’ goes from being about a lost love to rebuilding a friendship. What really stood out for me throughout the whole show was the clever use of staging and choreography which really brought the story to life. I was left wanting more!

The musical concludes with an event that brings the story full-circle, revisiting a tragic event from the girls’ past. The song ‘Starlight’ is so poignant for the moment and the entire audience become part of the scene, using a torch to join in and sing.

I urge everyone to go and see it before it closes in Manchester this weekend or get tickets for the rest of the tour.”